A Scottish NHS worker has been handed a suspended sentence after glassing a man who playfully tapped her with an inflatable golf club during a hen party in Tynemouth. Donna Stalker, 34, from Dunfermline, Fife, admitted unlawful wounding at Newcastle Crown Court.
The incident occurred on July 13, 2024, at the Head of Steam bar. Prosecutor Mairi Clancy said the victim, a keen footballer and boxer, had been tapping Stalker harmlessly on the head and back with the inflatable prop, which initially prompted laughter. Without warning, Stalker turned and struck him in the face with her glass, which shattered on impact.
The victim suffered a deep laceration to his chin requiring 10 stitches, cuts to his nose that were glued, and damage to his lip requiring a plastic surgeon. He had to cancel a boxing match for which tickets had already been sold. The court heard it is unclear if he will be permanently scarred.
Stalker left the bar and returned to Scotland, unaware of the injuries. She handed herself in after learning of a police media appeal. Judge Tom Moran sentenced her to 10 months suspended for 18 months, with 150 hours of unpaid work and a £1,000 compensation order. He noted the case highlights the dangers of violence involving glass.
Defence lawyer Brian Hegarty said Stalker has a limited recollection of events but accepts she lashed out in temper and feels deep shame.
